What exactly do the Carolina Panthers have at WR in 2021?
By Dean Jones
The new arrivals
Curtis Samuel leaves some big shoes to fill, of that there is little doubt. But there is nothing to suggest this production cannot be surpassed by some eye-catching acquisitions made by the Carolina Panthers this offseason.
David Moore arrived in free agency from the Seattle Seahawks, where he performed well as a key rotational piece that quarterback Russell Wilson had no trouble going to in crucial moments. The former seventh-round pick can influence proceedings all over the field and if the Panthers were looking for a ready-made replacement for Samuel, they may just have it at a fraction of the cost.
Carolina also brought in a couple of intriguing prospects via the 2021 NFL Draft who might be able to make a big contribution from the outset. The Panthers selected Terrace Marshall Jr. at No. 59 overall after hearing the New Orleans Saints were planning on taking the LSU star with the very next pick.
This might sound a little petty. But the simple fact is Marshall was a first-round talent that fell because of injury history and if he suffers no further problems on this front, he gives Carolina something a little bit different they can put to good use.
Another arriving over the draft weekend was Shi Smith, who was a human highlight reel at South Carolina and came across extremely well in front of the Panthers’ coaching staff at the 2021 Senior Bowl.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Smith ended up as a part of the rotation during his rookie season while also lending his skills set to the return game. In terms of high value, getting the former Gamecock in the sixth round should be a steal.
Much less is known about Micah Simon, who caught the eye of general manager Scott Fitterer at BYU’s pro day thanks in no small part to his blistering speed. But whether he can stake a claim for the 53-man roster is another matter entirely.